Techniques for Baby Massage

The concept of baby massage builds on what is really a mother’s instinct – touching and holding her baby. So many studies have pointed to the importance of physical contact in a baby’s health and development. In fact, babies in orphanages who receive little or no physical touch do not thrive.

Baby massage provides a tool for parents to use to give their baby the touch he or she needs. Did you know that infant massage may benefit parents, too?

Baby massage may build on instincts inherent in parents, but there are special techniques that should be employed for maximum benefit and to prevent harm. Here are some of the techniques for baby massage.

Make It Part of the Regular Routine…but Don’t Forget to Be Spontaneous

Count on about half an hour for your infant massage. If possible, set the mood with calm surroundings and total focus on your baby. However, as you learn these techniques, they can be employed as needed, such as during diaper changes or when you are waiting in the pediatrician’s office.

Assume the Position

Baby massage works best when your baby is in his diaper only. Lay him on a blanket and sit down with your feet together (if you can). Then you need only lean forward to massage your baby.

Talk to Your Baby

Make eye contact and talk to your baby when you massage him. This enhances communication, and some experts even suggest asking your baby for “permission” to give him a massage.

Feet First

Unless your baby objects to having his feet touched, these adorable parts of baby anatomy make a good starting place for your massage. This is particularly nice if massage is new to your baby.

Be Gentle, Not Ticklish

Tickling babies can be fun, but it produces the opposite effect than a massage. Massages are intended to induce calm and enhance bonding. Apply gentle pressure to the bottom of your baby’s feet with your thumbs, working from heel to toe.

Moving to the Middle

Go up your baby’s legs with the same gentle pressure and circular strokes with your thumbs. Then you can massage your baby’s tummy gently, keeping in mind the “inward to outward” technique. Using your fingertips, massage his tummy in a circular motion. You can also use a gentle “walking” motion with your fingers, especially around his belly button.

Bendy Baby

Another technique that can help if your baby has trouble with gas is to fold the knees gently upward toward the chest and rock gently from side to side. Then straighten the legs and repeat.

Massaging Baby’s Head

Avoiding the soft spot on the very top, make a “shampooing” motion with your fingertips. On his face, make a heart shape with your fingertips, starting at your baby’s forehead and coming down to his chin. Stroke his eyebrows outward using your thumbs.